If you own an AR15 or tactical carbine you are most probably using or looking forward to owning an LPVO scope, and if you are on the market for the best LPVO for AR15, this review is for you.
What is an LPVO Scope
LPVO(Low Powered Variable Optic).
An LPVO scope is a rifle scope with a lower magnification range than the traditional riflescope, this magnification range is known for speed and accuracy, LPVO scopes feature a magnification range from 1x to 10x(1-4x, 1-6x, 1-8x, and1-10x). The 1-6x is the most popular making it the standard magnification range for LPVO scopes.
Which LPVO Should I Buy for AR15?
The best LPVO scope for AR15 should be weatherproof (water and fog proof), Have a 1-4x,1-6x,1-8x, and 1-10x magnification range, have durable aircraft grade aluminum construction, a hard anodized finish for reduced glare and camouflage, have Fully Multi-Coated and comfortable eye relief among other features.
Here is a quick summary of the best LPVO Scopes for AR15
| #1) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
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| #2) Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
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| #3) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm 30mm Rifle Scope
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| #4) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Riflescope
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| #5) Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope
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| #6) EOTech Vudu 1-6x24mm Precision Rifle Scope
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| #7) Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6 x 24mm Rifle Scope
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| #8) Trijicon AccuPoint TR-25 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
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What Power LPVO is Best?
The 1-6x is the standard and the most popular magnification range for LPVO scopes. Others include 1-4x,1-8x, and 1-10x
What Range is LPVO Good for?
Close to medium range(500-800 yards)
LPVO optics offer a variable magnification that is adjustable to meet shooter needs and different ranges.LPVO scopes are great for short to medium ranges and can be used for longer ranges in higher magnifications. These scopes are used for hunting, tactical, and competition shooting.
Best LPVO for AR15
#1) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
With a 1-6×24 SFP reticle, this riflescope is your best LPVO scope for AR15 close to medium-range applications.
For Optical and operational convenience, this scope features an illuminated reticle for low-light environments, a fast-focus eyepiece for quick and easy focus, and also features inbuilt turrets and reticles for an amazing shooting experience at extended ranges.
On the inside, you get a Precision-Force Spring System for maximum repeatability and ease of adjustment and a Precision-Glide Erector System for smooth magnification changes even in the worst harshest conditions.
Construction-wise you get an Aircraft-Grade Aluminum chassis that is not only durable but also easy to add accessories. It also features a hard anodized finish for camouflage and low glare.
The scope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof to withstand recoil and impact.
Specifications
- Length: 10.9 in
- Weight: 22.7 oz
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.8 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 18.8 – 112.5 ft at 100 yds
- Parallax: 100 yds
Pros
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- XR Fully Multi-Coated optics
- Maximized internal adjustment and strength with the one-piece tube
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction for strength and rigidity
- Fast Focus Eyepiece
- Accurate shooting at extended ranges
- ArmorTek scratch-resistant and Ultra-hard coating to protect the lenses
- Hard Anodized Finish for camouflage and low glare
- Precision-Force Spring and Precision-Glide Erector Systems
- Illuminated Reticle for low light conditions
Cons
- None
#2) Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
If you are looking for the best LPVO scope for AR15 hunting the Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is your best choice. This scope is versatile, from mountain hunting, open plains, dangerous game, thick timber hunting, and any close to mid-range shooting, the scope will get the job done.
This Lupold scope brings to the table other incredible features such as HD Images, incredible light transmission, rugged performance, durability, and best-in-class glare reduction.
With Leupold’s Professional-Grade Optical System, you get an unmatched light transmission for the harshest lighting conditions.
Regarding quality assurance, Leupold riflescopes are made in the USA and guaranteed to perform for life.
Specifications
- Length: 10.8 in
- Weight: 13.4 oz
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.7 – 3.82 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 20.3-123.2 ft at 100 yds
- Parallax: side focus adjustable
Pros
- Motion Sensor Technology
- Guard-Ion Rain Shedding Coating
- Generous eyebox
- Twilight Max Light Management System
- Shockproof against impacts and recoil
- 6061-T6 Aluminum construction
- Best-in-class glare reduction
- FireDot Duplex reticle
- 8 brightness settings
Cons
- No adjustable objective
#3) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm 30mm Rifle Scope
If you are looking to optimize your AR 15 for versatility and quick handling the Vortex Strike Eagle will do exactly that. With a true 1x you are able to quickly engage targets at close range and medium range.
The AR-BDC3 reticle offers rapid target acquisition and shooting while providing holdover and ranging references from 0-600 yards. The thread-in throw lever also enhances this.
The fast focus dial on the eyepiece enhances quick and easy reticle focusing, while the fully multicoated optics and anti-reflective coatings improve light transmission, making it one of the best AR 15 scopes for low-light performance.
For a weatherproof(Water and fog proof) performance, the scope is nitrogen-purged and o-ring sealed while recoil and impacts are handled by the shockproof chassis.
Specifications
- Length: 10.5 in
- Weight: 18.5 oz
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 19.2 – 116.5 ft at 100 yds
- Parallax: 100 yds
Pros
- Shockproof and rugged construction
- Durable and strong aluminum-grade aircraft construction
- Hard and scratch-resistant lens coating
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Quick and easy magnification adjustments
Cons
- None
#4) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Riflescope
Built on a true strength platform, the redesigned strike eagle riflescope comes equipped with impressive features at a remarkably affordable cost.
This scope is defined by speed and versatility. A true 1x on the low end adapts to a wide range of shooting scenarios, either close or long-range.
Featuring a new BDC3 illuminated reticle, you get to focus on the target faster and shoot even in total darkness.
A fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing for quick target acquisition. Furthermore, the scope features anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces, to enhance light transmission and deliver bright and clear target images.
For all-weather reliability, the scope is nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed.
The one-piece, aircraft-grade aluminum construction makes the scope shockproof and impact-resistant.
Specifications
- Length: 10 in
- Weight: 17.6 oz
- Magnification: 1 – 8x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 3 – 24 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 14.4 – 109 ft at 100 yds
- Parallax: 100 yds
Pros
- Fully waterproof and fogproof.
- Shockproof and impact-resistant.
- Built from aircraft grade aluminum.
- Upgraded BDC3 illuminated reticle.
- Fat focus eyepiece.
- Easy to mount and easy to use.
- Multi-coated lenses.
- Side illumination controls with 11 illumination intensities.
Cons
- None
#5) Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope
Bushnell is well known to manufacture high-quality optics and this AR drop zone reticle riflescope is no exemption.
Made from high-quality aluminum alloy and paired with an anodized finish, this scope is highly durable and sturdy as well.
Weighing less than 2 pounds, this compact scope is lightweight, portable, and pack-able even in a backpack.
With a versatile 1-4x zoom power, the scope offers superior close and midrange accuracy while the 24mm objective lens gathers more light inside.
A fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing for quick target acquisition while the fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission even under low light conditions.
The scope also features capped turrets that offer a low power profile and precise, pinpoint adjustments as well.
Specifications
- Length: 9.4 in
- Weight: 18 oz
- Magnification: 1 – 4x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 5.2 – 13.1 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 112 – 27 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Small, compact, and lightweight.
- Made of sturdy and durable aluminum alloy.
- Waterproof and fogproof.
- Hard anodized finish.
- Fully multicoated lenses.
- 30mm tube diameter.
- Fast focus eyepiece.
- Versatile 1-4x zoom.
- Suitable for close and midrange shooting.
- Drop zone 223 BDC ballistic reticle.
Cons
- Non-illuminated
#6) EOTech Vudu 1-6x24mm Precision Rifle Scope
The EOTech Vudu 1-6x24mm Precision Rifle Scope is the best LPVO scope for AR15 hunters and 3-gun competition enthusiasts. The scope’s 24mm objective lens provides a wide field of view, making it easy to acquire targets quickly.
It also features a first focal plane reticle, which allows you to accurately estimate range and holdovers at any magnification level. Additionally, the scope’s illuminated reticle offers excellent visibility in low-light conditions, ensuring you can take your shot when you need to.
The scope is also waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, meaning it can withstand even the toughest hunting conditions. It comes with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected.
The Vudu’s exceptional build quality is also worth mentioning. It’s made from aircraft-grade aluminum, which provides exceptional durability while keeping the weight of the scope down.
Specifications
- Length: 10.63 in
- Weight: 20.1 oz
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil:1 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 16.7 – 102.4 ft at 100 ft
Pros
- Single-piece Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Push-button illumination controls for tracking east
- Anodized finish for low glare and extreme durability
- Laser-etched adjustment indicators
- Water-resistant, fog-resistant
- Shock-resistant
- Rugged design
- Anti-Reflective Lenses
Cons
- Quite expensive
#7) Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6 x 24mm Rifle Scope
The Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is one of the best LPVO scopes for AR15, it features a Second Focal Plane ACSS Predator reticle which is great for hunting and reticle illumination (red and Green) with 5 settings for each,
The scope is also BDC accurate at the highest magnification setting, it is a high-quality optic that offers exceptional clarity, versatility, and accuracy.
This scope is built with a 24mm objective lens, which provides a wide field of view and allows for quick target acquisition at close ranges. The 1-6x magnification range is perfect for both short-range shooting and mid-range engagements, making it an ideal choice for hunters, sport shooters, and tactical professionals.
Another notable feature of this rifle scope is its rugged construction. The scope is built with a durable 30mm aluminum tube that can withstand heavy recoil and harsh environments.
The tube is nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed, making it both fogproof and waterproof. The scope is also shockproof, meaning it can withstand impacts without losing its zero. The scope comes with a lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind to buyers.
Specifications
- Length: 10 in
- Weight: 16.9 oz
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil:4 – 9 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 110 – 19.3 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Illuminated BDC Reticle
- Butler Creek flip-up lens covers
- Hardcoat anodized matte finish
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Waterproof and fog-resistant
Cons
- None
#8) Trijicon AccuPoint TR-25 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
The Trijicon AccuPoint TR-25 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is the best LPVO scope for AR15 hunters, competitive shooters, and plinkers.
With a 24mm objective lens and a wide field of view, you get quick target acquisition at close ranges. The 1-6x magnification range is perfect for both short-range shooting and mid-range engagements.
One of the standout features of the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-25 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is its advanced illuminated reticle. The scope features a second focal plane reticle that is powered by fiber optics and tritium. This means that the reticle is always illuminated and does not require batteries, making it a reliable choice for any shooting scenario.
The scope features a rugged construction with durable aircraft-grade aluminum housing that can withstand heavy recoil and harsh environments.
The scope is waterproof and fogproof and comes with a lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind to buyers.
Specifications
- Length: 10 in
- Weight: 16.9 oz
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil:4 – 9 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 110 – 19.3 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Illuminated reticle
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Shock, recoil, and impact resistant
- Fully Multi-Coated optics
- Purpose-driven design
Cons
- Water resistance to only 10 ft
Read Also:11 Best LPVO scopes for Hunting, Tactical Carbines,308, and Hunting
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best LPVO for AR15
Magnification
A good scope will strive to reduce any minimal distortion. However, you need to balance the magnification power with other features in your rifle. The shooting activity you intend to engage in will dictate the magnification to choose.
Look for a scope with adjustable magnification, so you can adjust the shooting range with ease. The 1-6x is the standard and the most popular magnification range for LPVO scopes. Others include 1-4x,1-8x, and 1-10x
Weatherproof
Ensure that the scope you choose is capable of handling the rough terrain and recoil from your firearm as well as your style of hunting or shooting. It should be in a position to withstand any impact or shock. Nitrogen purging is found in rifle scopes of this price range. It provides fog-proof benefits against condensation and temperature changes. Watertight scopes with O-ring seals ensure that the internal systems are kept dry even when using the scope in wet weather conditions.
Usage and environment
The other consideration to have in mind when selecting the right scope is to determine what you are going to use it for and where you are going to be using it. You can find a scope that is of help in a certain situation but a liability in another.
Extreme weather conditions, extreme temperature, humidity, and moisture conditions are some of the environmental conditions to keep in mind as well.
Lens quality
The quality of the lens is what makes or breaks a good scope. It has a direct impact on the clarity of the scope and how well you see through your riflescope.
High-quality lenses enhance your accuracy and improve eye relief. The bigger the lens diameter, the higher the quality. However, the downside of a larger diameter means a heavier scope. The added weight can throw off the balance of your rifle. It can make it feel heavy and uncomfortable.
Eye relief
Eye relief refers to the distance you hold your scope from your eye when shooting. It is important to have a riflescope with adequate eye relief because hitting yourself when you shoot can cause serious eye damage.
The common eye relief on rifle scopes is 3 to 4”. A scope with generous eye relief not only protects your eyes from heavy recoil rifles but also provides a snug view of the target.
Is LPVO Better than Red Dot?
A red dot sight works best for close-range and fast-moving targets, it’s also easy and fast to use.
An LPVO, on the other hand, features a variable magnification that is adjustable to suit different situations from close range to medium range and sometimes long range if the scope has bigger magnifications such as 8 or 12.
An LPVO is heavier bigger, and more expensive than a red dot sight.
Red dot sights feature unlimited eye relief while LPVOs have ample eye relief.
Ultimately, the choice of either an LPVO or red dot will be dependent on the shooter’s needs.
Read More on LPVO Vs Red Dot
Best LPVO for AR15 FAQs
- What kind of magnification should I use?
This depends on the shooting activity you are engaged in. If shooting at moving targets or at short range, you should use low magnification. Game hunting and mid-range target shooting require medium-level magnification while long-range shooting requires high magnification.
LPVO scopes feature a magnification range from 1x to 10x(1-4x, 1-6x, 1-8x, and 1-10x)
- What are windage and elevation?
When shooting, you might want to change your aiming point by shifting it. Windage is the adjustment that lets you shift your aiming point horizontally while elevation enables you to move the aiming point up and down.
- How do I find a scope that works well in the dark?
The primary thing to consider is a scope with an illuminated reticle with different reticle colors. Most scopes either have three or five illumination colors. For you to have clear target views even in the dark, look for a scope with a larger objective lens as well as fully multi-coated lenses.
- What major features should I consider if I want a stable scope?
Stability comes with weight, so a slightly heavier scope will work. Additionally, the scope needs to be shockproof and shouldn’t shift during recoils. A scope that’s capable of maintaining a target despite the force of recoil will do.
Conclusion
Having a clear idea of the shooting activity you’ll be engaged in will help you find the best LPVO scope for AR15.
With AR rifle scopes, you get what you pay for. As much as possible, avoid cheap and low-quality scopes as they will only cause frustration. All the scopes listed above are high quality and relatively affordable as well.
We love how functional and reliable they are and it’s our hope that you get to love them too.
Read Also: 7 Best AR 15 Deer Hunting Scopes
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